Umaisar Gull Ganie
Srinagar, Aug 8: The first half of 2023 has witnessed a concerning surge in road accidents, resulting in 135 fatalities across Kashmir, reveals official data.
Figures accessed reveal that a total of 1064 road accidents were reported in the valley since January 2023 to date, leading to 135 fatalities.
Srinagar district emerged as one of the most accident-prone areas, recording 225 accidents that claimed the lives of 28 people. Srinagar is followed by South Kashmir’s Anantnag that saw 147 accidents and 25 deaths.
“Budgam reported 80 accidents, resulting in eight fatalities. In Kulgam, 74 accidents were reported, leading to the loss of 11 lives. Ganderbal district witnessed 83 accidents, with a death toll of 2 people. A total of 38 road accidents were recorded in Bandipora, resulting in three deaths. Pulwama experienced 59 accidents and four fatalities. Shopian saw 20 accidents and three tragic deaths,” the official data reveals, adding that “Awantipora police district in south Kashmir reported 50 accidents, with 13 lives lost. Baramulla district reported 126 accidents, leading to 12 fatalities. Kupwara witnessed 57 accidents, resulting in seven deaths. Handwara reported 58 accidents, with a death toll of nine people. Sopore saw 47 accidents and the loss of 10 lives.”
Expressing concern over the distressing statistics, Superintendent of Traffic Police for Rural Kashmir, Ravindar Pal Singh, emphasized the efforts undertaken to address this alarming issue. “Special drives against traffic violations have been carried out rigorously, and awareness programs targeting drivers, students, and local communities have been conducted to encourage adherence to traffic rules and regulations,” he said.
To enhance enforcement measures, he said several initiatives have been implemented, including the use of E-Challaning for streamlined penalties, breath analyzers to detect intoxication, and the installation of trash barricades. “Over-speeding is being tackled through a state-of-the-art speed radar system, and violators are being promptly booked in accordance with provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Special attention is being devoted to combat non-compliance with helmet-wearing, overloading, and reckless driving practices,” he added.
“Efforts are also being focused on taking strict actions against habitual violators, including the cancellation of driving licenses, vehicle registrations, and permits for those involved in accidents resulting in fatalities,” he said.
Singh urges drivers to follow traffic rules strictly: no speeding, wear helmets, avoid overloading, refrain from mobile use while driving, no stunts on bikes, and stay on the correct side of the road, ensure regular vehicle check-ups, drive sober, and possess a valid license and fitness certification.
